New Zealand South Island 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are you doing this?

In short, I love travel, planning travel, sharing travel, and I understand that some people find travel planning challenging and/or want to travel with others. And, of course, it’s New Zealand! Our past trips were absolutely incredible and an amazing experience for each traveler, and I am super excited to share this new experience with others.

Is this trip for me?

Planning: I’ve planned everything for you! All you have to do is show up and trust that you will have an amazing adventure waiting for you. All you have to decide is what you want to eat for each meal and any optional activities you want to do. If you love going on adventures but don’t enjoy planning all the details, this trip is perfect for you.

Fitness Level: The hiking trails on the South Island range from “easy” to “hard”. Because of the unique way we will be visiting the island, all hiking will be optional. While there are no extremely technical climbs, hiking requires a reasonable level of fitness and we may be doing 2-3 hikes per day of varying lengths and difficulty. If you're comfortable with regular walks or hikes, you should be able to manage the trails with proper preparation.

Hiking Experience: While prior hiking experience is not essential, some familiarity with walking on uneven terrain and carrying a daypack is beneficial. If you're a novice hiker, consider training beforehand to build endurance and get accustomed to hiking gear.

Enjoyment of the Outdoors: New Zealand’s South Island offers a rich immersion in nature, with diverse landscapes ranging from serene seaside locations to rugged mountains. If you appreciate spending time outdoors, relish fresh air, and find beauty in natural surroundings, this trip will likely resonate with you.

Sense of Adventure: The New Zealand South Island trip is an adventure that calls for a spirit of exploration and a willingness to embrace the challenges of a multiple day hikes. If you're eager to step out of your comfort zone, discover new places, and challenge yourself physically, this trip could be an enriching experience. There are also other unique opportunities like kayaking and boat excursions.

Appreciation for Kiwi Culture: This trip provides a glimpse into Kiwi and Maori heritage and culture, with charming villages, historic sites, and opportunities to interact with locals.

Desire for Camaraderie: A group trip offers a unique opportunity to bond with fellow travelers, share experiences, and create lasting memories. If you enjoy socializing and connecting with others, this trip could provide a fulfilling group dynamic.

If you find yourself nodding along to these factors, then the South Island group trip could be an excellent fit for you. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the South Island, challenge your physical limits, and forge new connections with like-minded adventurers. Embrace the spirit of exploration and embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impression.

Why should I travel with this group?

Forget impersonal, organized group travel. This is a unique, small-group, personalized travel experience. Travel with a diverse but similarly-minded group of people together on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

How much will it cost?

Total cost for all 15 days is $3849 USD (see below for what is included/excluded). I am doing everything I can to maximize the experience while keeping costs as low as possible. Trip prices may increase for late bookings if space is still available.

What’s included?

14-night’s stay in charming accommodations along the route (including one night at the start of the trip and one night at end in Christchurch)

In a few cases, some meals may be provided (e.g. on Doubtful Sound overnight boat cruise). Any included meals will be added to the itinerary

Morning kayaking trip while in Milford Sound (5 hour total with 3-3.5 hours active kayaking)

Overnight cruise (and lodging) through Doubtful Sound (includes nature guide, plated three-course dinner plus a cooked and continental breakfast prepared by on-board chef, warm, comfortable shared accommodation, snacks and drinks are available for purchase, scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over the beautiful Wilmot Pass)

Glowworm cave visit in Te Anau (2-3 hour visit includes scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, guided tour of the caves by path and by small boat, and complimentary tea and coffee)

Transportation, driver, and fuel while in the South Island during the inclusive dates of the trip

Fully guided trip by an experienced hiker and guide

What’s not included?

Airfare to and from Christchurch at the start and end of trip

Meals, food, and drinks unless otherwise indicated as included

Travel Insurance. More details below

Personal hiking equipment /gear

Optional activities like helicoptor ride, boat and kayaking tours (except those specified as included above), wine tasting, bike rentals, museums, etc.

How large will the group be?

In order to maximize the experience, I have limited the maximum group size to 6 people (including myself).

Do I need to be in good shape? How difficult is the walking/hiking?

You should be in reasonably good shape prior to starting this trip. During the experience and on hiking days, we will be hiking on average 2-6 hours a day over varied terrain. The South Island has easy to more difficult level trails and should be suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. While some trails may be well-maintained and easy to follow, there may be others that will be more challenging with some rock scrambles and muddy sections. As each hike will be optional, we will discuss in detail before starting each day so that you can make an informed decision about the hikes planned for that day.

Jogging, biking, swimming, yoga, or whatever your favorite exercises are great to keep up (or start) well before the trip (at least 3-6 weeks prior). If you have any concerns related to your health and ability to complete this experience, please consult your physician.

What kind of pace will we hike?

We’ll tailor the pace each day based on everyone’s abilities, how much hiking we want to accomplish, start time, weather conditions, and breaks. Please don’t be afraid to speak up if you think we need to slow down or take a break. We’ll do our best to accommodate everyone and ensure the pace we walk is enjoyable.

Speaking of start times, when will start each day?

Again, we’ll consider a variety of factors each day, such as weather, driving distances, activities, etc.

Is this a luxury tour?

This is not a luxury tour, at least in the traditional sense. The luxuries will come in the form of the very unique experiences we’ll have on this journey. Most of the accommodations are 3-star level.

What are sleeping accommodations like?

We will be staying in at least a 3-star hotel in Christchurch. For the rest of the experience, we will be staying in charming accommodations in the villages and cities along the way. These may be large, self-catering homes or smaller inns or cabins. Most rooms are double occupancy (either a queen/double bed or two twins), but I may be able to make single occupancy arrangements in advance and with an upcharge (at cost). You can share your room with your traveling companion or another member of the group (if traveling solo).

What if I want my own room?

Please coordinate this in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate. There would be a single supplement upcharge TBD.

What do I need to bring?

We’ll provide a more detailed list later, but here are some items you will likely need to bring (keep in mind that the weather may vary wildly from warm sunny periods to cold and rain):

Hiking shorts, trekking pants, lightweight underwear, t-shirts (ideally quick drying), thermal underwear, light waterproof jacket, Gore-Tex jacket, fleece jacket or pullover, down jacket/coat liner, gloves, hat, daypack, electricity adapters (EU), e-book reader, glasses and sunglasses, medications for the whole trip, toiletries, quick-drying towel, soap, wet wipes, sanitizer, water purification tablets or water filter device (as a backup), refillable water bottles and/or bladders, hat, sunscreen, lip balm, trekking poles (optional depending on preference), portable device charger/battery, good hiking boots, lighter shoes/sandals to wear post hike on trek, sweatpants/joggers, tennis/walking shoes, an eye mask (if sensitive to light)

Should I wear hiking boots or trail shoes?

The choice is really up to you and your previous experience. Hiking boots can be heavier and arguably more cumbersome, but they also provide ankle support where trail shoes do not. My recommendation is for hiking boots (ideally with some degree of water protection), but if you have done long walks/hikes in trail shoes and prefer those, please follow your gut.

Do I need trekking poles?

Again, the choice is really up to you. I personally have mixed feelings about them. People who carry two and walk with them on regular/flat terrain tend to walk more slowly than those without. However, there are times on steep or unstable terrain that they can be helpful. My personal preference is to (sometimes) carry one and only use it when necessary.

What’s the weather going to be like?

January is a summer month for the South Island, and average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). That said, the weather conditions can change quickly and can also be much cooler at higher altitudes. It’s best to be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions.

If it’s raining, will we still hike?

Most likely yes. There is a good chance we will have some rain at some point during our hikes. Waterproof gear is essential. If the weather is very bad or dangerous during a hike, we will try to find shelter and wait for it to clear. Also, we may delay or omit certain hikes in the event of inclement weather. Rainy days/periods could be a good opportunity to take an easier hike, check out a museum or cafe, or simply relax in a cozy spot with a good book and a hot tea.

How much do I need to put as a deposit to hold my space? When is the balance due?

I kindly ask that you pay a $300 deposit to secure your space on the trip. It is fully refundable up to 10 Aug 2025. The balance is due 1 Oct 2025 and is non-refundable. Trip insurance can help cover any unforeseen obstacles to travel. If you have a unique situation and need some flexibility with this, please contact me directly. Advanced payment is necessary due to the popularity of the South Island and the limited availability of accommodations as a result. Many places require prepayment and finding replacement travelers can be challenging. Thank you for understanding!

Do I need insurance?

Although not mandatory, it is HIGHLY recommended in the event you need to cancel or alter your travel plans. It is also helpful in the extremely unlikely event you need medical care or evacuation while you are traveling. There are many options available out there. I recommend World Nomads; however feel free to chose whomever you like.

What time should I arrive into Christchurch on the first day?

The choice is yours; however please keep in mind that we will have an early start the next morning. We will also try to have a welcome dinner for the group that first night. You are welcome to arrive as early as you like if you want to explore Christchurch. I can help you make hotel arrangements if arriving before the start of the group trip.

What if I want to stay longer and see other things?

That’s an EXCELLENT idea if you are able. There is so much to see and do in New Zealand!

I have dietary restrictions, can you accommodate them?

We will do our best to accommodate, but please communicate any restrictions or concerns prior to booking.

How do I reserve a spot???

Just let me know! Once you share all of your pertinent details and pay the $300 refundable (up to 10 Aug), you’re in!!

Anything else I should know?

Here are some additional pointers to make sure you get the most of this experience:

Expect the unexpected. Although this trip is fairly structured, this is adventure travel

As mentioned above, try to be more of a traveler and less of a tourist

Always seek the beauty and fun of an experience and people. There’s charm everywhere

Try everything you can (be openminded) and be open to pushing your boundaries

Breathe deeply and fully

Pack some patience and a lot of kindness